Nigeria’s media industry was plunged into grief Monday morning after ARISE News announced the tragic death of one of its promising broadcast journalists, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.
The 29-year-old news anchor, reporter and producer, fondly called “Sommie” by colleagues, was killed in an armed robbery at her residence in the Katampe area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
A statement issued on Monday by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, on behalf of ARISE News management, confirmed the incident.
“Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, following an armed robbery incident in her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja,” the statement read.
The statement further noted: “Sommie, 29, was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers. Beyond the airwaves, Sommie was a lawyer who was a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. Sommie’s voice is now silent but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits.”
In the same statement, the management expressed regret over any distress caused by the tragedy, while emphasising that the loss would not diminish respect for the anniversary of her contributions.
The robbery and murder occurred in the early hours of Monday, with police confirming that an investigation has commenced.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, told The Nation that the police are aware of the incident, and while no arrests have yet been made, inquiries are ongoing.
Across the country, fellow journalists, legal professionals, public figures and ordinary citizens expressed shock and demanded justice.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah described the death as “a heavy loss to both her medium and the entire Nigerian media industry.” He urged security agencies to spare no effort to bring the perpetrators to book.
The federal government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, condemned the killing in “the strongest terms.”
He called the incident “a grievous loss not only to her immediate family… but to the Nigerian media fraternity and indeed the nation,” while assuring that the security agencies are fully engaged in investigating the case.
Tributes have also poured in from social media and the public, highlighting Sommie’s professionalism, warmth, and dedication. Many lamented that such senseless violence continues to rob the country of its brightest voices.
According to earlier biographical details, Somtochukwu Maduagwu was born on 26 December 1995, and besides her role in broadcast journalism, she trained and practised as a lawyer.
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